Legendary Coach Lou Holtz Remembered by Players and Colleagues

Lou Holtz, a legendary figure in American football, passed away on October 4, 2023, at the age of 89. Holtz’s career included two significant tenures at the College of William & Mary, where he left an indelible mark on players and the football program.

Initially arriving in 1961 as an assistant under head coach Milt Drewer, Holtz spent two years in Williamsburg before moving on to other coaching roles. He returned to William & Mary in 1969 as head coach, a position he held until 1971. His time at the university was foundational, as he later reflected on its importance in his career, stating, “If it hadn’t been for William and Mary, I wouldn’t be at Notre Dame today.”

Impact on Players and the Program

Jimmye Laycock, who played for Holtz from 1969 to 1970 and later became head coach at William & Mary for nearly four decades, spoke fondly of Holtz’s influence. “Lou always had a special place in his heart for William & Mary,” Laycock said. He described Holtz as a “ball of fire” who transformed the team’s dynamics. “He was a very demanding person, had a great football mind, and knew how to motivate players.”

Throughout his coaching career, Holtz maintained strong relationships with his former players. Laycock noted that he kept in touch with Holtz throughout his life, emphasizing the deep bond they shared. In 2020, Holtz was inducted into the William & Mary Athletics Hall of Fame, where he expressed his gratitude for the recognition. He acknowledged that both William & Mary and Notre Dame attracted athletes with comparable intelligence and values.

William & Mary President Katherine Rowe highlighted Holtz’s lasting influence during his induction, stating he had made a significant impact on the university’s football tradition and overall community. His record while coaching at William & Mary included a Southern Conference mark of 9-4 and an overall record of 13-20. In contrast, Holtz’s 33-season career across six schools culminated in a record of 249-132-7.

Challenges and Achievements

Holtz’s arrival at William & Mary came at a tumultuous time. Jim Cavanaugh, a wide receiver during Holtz’s first year, recalled the challenges of adapting to new coaching methods. “Things were a little crazy,” Cavanaugh said, reflecting on the upheaval following the resignation of the previous coach. Despite the difficulties, the team embraced Holtz’s vision.

Barry Beers, who played offensive guard under Holtz, described him as “determined” and “aggressive in a good way.” Beers attributed his ability to attend William & Mary to the football scholarship he received. “I am greatly indebted to him,” he stated. Beers added that there was disappointment when Holtz accepted a position at N.C. State, but acknowledged that he deserved the opportunity.

Holtz left William & Mary after the retirement of President Davis Y. Paschall, who had supported a vision for a more competitive football program. After a difficult season in 1971, Holtz agreed to join N.C. State, a decision that would pave the way for his future success, including a national championship at Notre Dame in 1988.

The enduring legacy of Lou Holtz is reflected not only in his coaching records but also in the lives he touched. Joseph W. “Joe” Montgomery, a center on Holtz’s team, described playing for him as a “transformative experience,” emphasizing Holtz’s ability to inspire players. “He was the rarest of the rare,” Montgomery remarked, underscoring Holtz’s unique impact on their lives.

As tributes continue to pour in, Holtz’s contributions to football and his profound influence on players remain evident. His story reflects a journey of dedication, mentorship, and a deep commitment to the sport he loved.